If John John Florence wins this year's World Title it'll appear like a matter of destiny. The blonde-haired kid that grew up on the beach at Pipe who turned preturnatural flair into a world beating talent? It's only a matter of time.

Yet many a grommet has been pegged as a world champ only to retire without holding the platinum pot aloft. 'Destiny' means nothing. A platitude for those who cant appreciate the work, sacrifice, and smarts that go into a year long campaign.

Keen watchers will appreciate how John John has changed his competitive approach. More focus on preparation and heat strategy, less reliance on artistry. And now he sits on the cusp of a World Title. What does he have to do to win?

Overnight John John made the Semifinals in Portugal, however so to did Jordy Smith, who's currently in third place and an outside chance for the title.

Mathematically, John John is just one heat win away from the 2016 World Title. Should he defeat Kolohe Andino in their coming Semi, and Jordy fails to get past Conner Coffin, John John would claim the World Title before paddling out again.

However, if Jordy were to join him in the Final and John John wins, John John will claim the Title, to become the first male world champion to be crowned before the season finale at Pipeline since Kelly Slater in 2011.

Then again, if John John is defeated in his Semi, the title race will go down to Pipeline. For Jordy to stay in contention and make it a three-man title race, along with Gabriel Medina, he'll need to win here at Portugal.

The swell forecast hints at competition resuming again today.